Once again, Ja Morant is facing criticism and intense scrutiny from the NBA community for his actions in the Memphis Grizzlies’ recent victory, have a look at the real meaning of his dance celebration
Following his return from a 25-game suspension related to an incident where he brandished a gun at a camera, Morant has steered the Grizzlies to an impressive 4-0 record, including an overtime win against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night.
What is the meaning of Ja Morant dance celebration during Grizzlies vs Pelicans and was it related to gun shooting
Ja Morant hits the “Gun Celebration” after dunking on The Pelicans for the win 🔥😂 pic.twitter.com/jXrCtW3O12
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) December 27, 2023
For the love of God…Ja Morant wasn’t doing air pistols or a bazooka. He was doing a NEW ORLEANS dance in NEW ORLEANS.
Folks gotta chill. The locals there new exactly what it was. https://t.co/x9sYG6Gtv5 pic.twitter.com/x7IJojODfY
— Kev (@Kev_Twit901) December 27, 2023
In the game, Morant concluded with 31 points and sealed the victory with a dramatic alley-oop dunk. However, it was his celebratory gestures that sparked discussions.
After energetically interacting with the crowd, Morant appeared to simulate firing a gun by pointing his fingers and making a “trigger-pulling” motion—a concerning act given his recent suspension for gun-related issues.
Despite the apparent negative optics, Morant insisted on social media that his actions were merely a mimicry of a popular dance in New Orleans known as “rock ya hips.”
He refuted claims of any gun-related reference and emphasized the innocent nature of his celebration. The rivalry between the Pelicans and Grizzlies, coupled with the connections between the organizations, adds another layer to the narrative.
Morant, forever linked to New Orleans, was drafted second overall by Memphis in the 2019 NBA Draft after Zion Williamson. While Morant’s celebration may have been misinterpreted, the tumultuous off-court incidents he has faced have contributed to the scrutiny.
Former NBA forward Chandler Parsons weighed in, suggesting that Morant needs to be more aware of the situation and exhibit greater maturity, especially considering the challenges he has encountered over the past year.
Parsons expressed disbelief at the discussion surrounding Morant’s potential association with anything gun-related, urging the young guard to focus on basketball and personal growth instead of engaging in actions that divert attention from his stellar performance on the court.
Although Morant likely did not intend for his celebration to be taken out of context, NBA fans will scrutinize and analyze every aspect of his actions due to the previous gun incidents. Morant and the Grizzlies have yet to comment on the matter, aside from his social media post.
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